Vermaelen has refused to sign a new deal at Arsenal and has told the club he will not agree fresh terms.

The 28-year-old will leave the Gunners on a free transfer next summer, when his current contract with the north London club expires, if they force him to stay for the 2014-15 campaign.

Arsenal would be loathed to lose the Belgium international for nothing and thus are ready to sell but understandably would rather the player moved to Catalunya rather than follow former team-mate Robin van Persie to Old Trafford.

Goal revealed last month that Barcelona had rekindled their interest in Vermaelen but United boss Van Gaal has made it clear to club officials since day one that he wants Arsenal's club captain to bolster his defence.

Vermaelen now has a straight decision between two of the biggest clubs in the world and it is expected that he will make his choice and inform his potential new employers later this week.

United remain confident they will land Vermaelen but Barcelona, who themselves will be determined to improve in 2014-15 after a trophyless season last time out, believe they can persuade the former Ajax man to switch to La Liga.